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Eastern trade has a long history. Exotic goods were brought through the Red Sea over a thousand years before the Roman conquest of Egypt. Hieroglyphic texts reveal how in the [...]

China and Rome were the two great economic superpowers of the Ancient World. Yet their empires were separated by thousands of miles of inhospitable terrain, dramatically reducing the opportunities for […]

The article discusses the history of the city of Palmyra, now located in Syria. Topics include the role of Palmyra in caravan trade between the Roman and Parthian Empires, the destruction of the city's ruins and antiquities by the militant group ISIS, and the influence of Palmyrene merchants on trade. The military history of Palmyra is addressed.

The article discusses ancient military conflict in the deserts of the Nile River region known as Nubia, particularly in Meroe. It examines the military exploits of the Kushites, the conquering of Nubia by Egyptian pharaohs, and the military forces of the Roman Empire in Africa. The article discusses the reign of Roman leader Gaius Cornelius Gallus, the actions of Roman courtier Petronius against the Meroitic army, and the significance of the Nile River to the Roman Empire. It also discusses attempts to utilize the region by Roman emperor Nero.

The article presents discussion regarding a letter by the ancient Greek physician Claudius Galenus (Galen) which describes the events of the fire of Rome in A.D. 192. Introductory accounts are provided noting the rediscovery of the letter "On the Avoidance of Grief" by the ancient figure in 2005 after it had been thought to be destroyed. The conditions of the city of Rome during Galen's lifetime are described, focusing on the circumstances immediately preceding and following the disaster. Comparative passages from other contemporary writers are also included. Additional information is provided reflecting on the implications and public opinion of the event.